Microchipping your pet

A pet microchip is approximately the size of a grain of rice with a unique 15 digit number programmed into it. It is implanted quickly and easily into the scruff of your pets neck by a vet or trained professional. The microchip remains completely inactive until scanned when its unique number is transmitted to the scanner and displayed on the screen.

Microchip scanners are routinely used by vets, charities, rescue centres and dog wardens all over the country when presented with a lost pet.

If a microchip is detected they will then contact the database the pet is registered on and, following security checks, your contact details will be released so that you can be contacted and reunited with your missing pet.

UK and Ireland Timeline

England - The microchipping of dogs in England became compulsory on 6th April 2016.

Wales - The microchipping of dogs in Wales became compulsory on 6th April 2016.

Scotland - The microchipping of dogs in Scotland became compulsory on 6th April 2016.

Northern Ireland - Compulsory microchipping of dogs was introduced in April 2012 with all dogs held under an individual dog licence requiring a microchip.

The Republic of Ireland - Compulsory microchipping of dogs was introduced on a phased basis, beginning with puppies from September 2015 and to include dogs from March 2016.